The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 157

Olivia

Friday afternoon found us speeding along the Pacific Coast Highway, windows down and music playing. Alexander looked relaxed behind the wheel, one hand resting casually on the steering wheel, the other occasionally reaching over to squeeze my knee.

“So, are you going to tell me more about this Malibu house?” I asked, watching the ocean glitter alongside the highway.

“And ruin the surprise? Not a chance.” He grinned, sunglasses hiding his eyes. “Just trust me.”

“The last time you said ‘trust me,‘ I ended up zip–lining across a canyon in the island.”

“And wasn’t it exhilarating?”

“Terrifying is the word I’d use.”

Alexander’s phone buzzed with an incoming call. He glanced at the display before silencing it. “Work can wait until Monday.”

“Look at you, ignoring calls. Who are you and what have you done with my workaholic husband?”

“I’m evolving,” he said with mock seriousness. “Becoming a more balanced individual.”

“Uh–huh.” I wasn’t convinced. “Let’s see how long that lasts.”

“At least until Monday morning,” he promised. “This weekend is just for us.”

The Malibu house, as Alexander had modestly called it, turned out to be a stunning oceanfront villa perched on the cliffs above a private beach. Modern architecture blended seamlessly with the natural landscape, floor- to–ceiling windows capturing breathtaking views of the Pacific.

“This is incredible,” I breathed as we stepped into the expansive living room. The space opened onto an infinity pool that seemed to merge with the ocean beyond.

“Glad you approve,” Alexander said, looking pleased with himself. “Wait until you see the master suite.”

kidding. The bedroom featured a king–sized bed facing the ocean, with a private terrace and an outdoor shower concealed by

isn’t a house,” I said, running my hand along

Alexander replied, wrapping his arms around me from

what’s the plan?” I asked, leaning back against his chest. “Besides the

have dinner on the terrace, maybe take a moonlight swim…” His hands slid up to cup my breasts, thumbs brushing over my nipples through my shirt. “And

in his arms to face him. “But I think I’d like to

but quickly recovered. “Your wish is my

staircase to the beach below. The cove was completely secluded, protected by natural rock formations that blocked it from

you find this place?” I asked, digging my toes into the

the weekend,” Alexander said, watching a seagull soar overhead. “I made a few

calls,” I repeated with a laugh. “Just like

said with a grin that was simultaneously

I started walking toward the water’s edge, feeling the cool spray against my legs. “Race you to that rock

off running before he could respond, laughing as I heard him shout behind me. Despite my head start, Alexander caught up quickly, his longer stride eating up the distance

gasped through my laughter

he countered, setting me down

for a moment, catching our breath, the waves lapping at our ankles. Alexander’s eyes were bright with something I couldn’t quite name, happiness, maybe, or

self–conscious

thinking how beautiful you look right

kiss that started gentle but quickly deepened, his hands sliding down to cup my bottom

should head back,” he murmured against my lips. “Before I’m tempted to take you right here

agreed,

my hand as we started walking

“Hardly. Just common sense.”

the villa, we spent the rest of the afternoon alternating between swimming in the infinity pool and lounging on the deck

fresh towel

wrapping the

should be

Did you